Integrating parameters to assess on-farm welfare

Given the absence of a ‘Golden Standard’ for the objective determination of welfare, the collection and interpretation of data involving different parameters is essential to assess the well being of farm animals. The choice of parameters and the relative weight assigned to each of them are crucial for the outcome of the assessment. Both elements involve a certain degree of subjectivity. This paper discusses the basics of different methods used to integrate welfare parameters, focussing on the issue of scientific objectivity. It starts off by addressing parameter selection, the assignment of parameter weightings or rankings and the qualifications necessary for ‘experts’ designing and applying the methodology. Then five different approaches to integrating parameters are discussed. The paper does not state a preference for any method, but aims to encourage discussion on key elements involved with the on-farm assessment of welfare.